SNELLVILLE -- A rabies alert has been issued after a pair of raccoons found in the Snellville area tested positive for the virus.

Gwinnett County animal control announced this week that two raccoons found Oct. 6 on Scenic Drive in unincorporated Snellville tested positive for rabies at the state laboratory. They were the third and fourth animals to be found positive for rabies in the last month.

A rabid raccoon was found on Sept. 24 on Arabian Way in Snellville, about nine miles from the most recent site. Another was found Sept. 15 on Huntshire Lane in Lilburn.

Anyone who has been bitten or scratched by any stray animals, or who knows of anyone handling the animals above, is asked to call the Gwinnett County Animal Welfare and Enforcement bite office at 770-339-3200, extension 5576.